Scarpa Neutron Performance

There’s a lot to like about the Neutron, in particular that Vibram Genetic sole was so impressively grippy on anything from wet rock through to soft, grassy steeps that we actually did some research into it.

Turns out it uses Vibram’s impressively grippy Megagrip rubber, which is claimed to mix durability with awesome grips levels. The lug shapes seem to work as well, we had no slippage issues uphill, down, or off camber, the things just stuck. We were particularly impressed with the security on wet rock.

The rest of the shoe is solid and comfortable with good underfoot protection on stony trails and comfortable uppers with a medium broad fit. The only time it felt uncomfortable was on continuous hard surfaces like pavements, slabbed trails and continuous rocky terrain where it wasn’t as comfortable and cushioned as something like the Salomon Speedcross 4 or Saucony Peregrine 6.

Our other gripe was that the shoe feels sturdy rather than nimble. Some of that may be down to the broader than average heel, which is stable, but a little clumpy.

Verdict

Awesome grip from the Vibram sole and generally comfortable plus well made, the Neutron has a sturdy, reliable vibe rather than a quick and nimble feel. Finally, it’s slightly harsher than some alternatives on harder surfaces. If you run mostly on mixed and softer terrain though, it’s a reliable choice.